'Fantastic': Glasgow tree planting projects awarded funding
Funding has been awarded to tree planting projects in Glasgow.
The Urban Forestry Programme, a 10-year initiative by Future Woodlands Scotland (FWS), has awarded more than £450,000 to seven projects to plant trees in Scotland's towns and cities.
The programme, supported by BP, has given large grants of up to £100,000 to the selected projects.
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Glasgow projects include the Govanhill Baths Community Trust's Creative Canopy Project and the Glasgow Canopy Project by Glasgow City Council.
(Image: Supplied) The Creative Canopy Project, awarded £90,000 over three years, plans to plant 780 fruit and nut trees as a dispersed orchard across Govanhill.
Simone Stewart, arts and heritage manager at Govanhill Baths Community Trust, said: "The Creative Canopy Project transforms everyday spaces into living artworks—planting trees in backcourts, derelict land, and community gardens to grow care, connection, and long-term change in Govanhill, Glasgow.
"Through creative workshops, seasonal celebrations, and partnerships with local organisations, the project tackles food insecurity, improves air quality, and nurtures biodiversity.
'In a neighbourhood long underserved by environmental investment, this is about more than just tree cover.
"It's a creative act of growing environmental awareness and wellbeing—led by those who live here.
"We recognise the complexities of funding in this space, and we're proud to be supported by an Urban Forestry Challenge Fund grant from Future Woodlands Scotland to help make it happen.'
Meanwhile, the Glasgow Canopy Project aims to plant street trees, woodland, and hedgerows, and create habitats in the Govan and Dalmarnock areas.
The projects were chosen based on their potential to help towns and cities across Scotland achieve the 3:30:300 rule.
This rule means that everyone should see three trees from their home, every neighbourhood should have 30 per cent tree canopy, and quality green space should be within 300 metres.
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Shireen Chambers, chief executive officer of FWS, said: "It's been fantastic to see the response to the first year of the Urban Forestry Programme Challenge Fund with 10 projects selected for funding across both grant categories.
'We looked for projects with a strong urban focus which prioritise areas most in need of trees and woodlands.
"We want to ensure everyone can benefit from trees – by learning about them, engaging in their care or simply spending time around them.
"These greening projects will bring more trees into the heart of our towns and cities—enhancing spaces, strengthening communities and helping more people connect with nature.
'We are proud to lead this important initiative with the backing of our founding partner BP and we look forward to seeing how these projects create lasting change over the coming years.'
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